ICREST - Western Illinois University

College of Business & Technology

iCREST Program

Improving Career Readiness for Engineering Students Through a Mentored Living Learning Community

We are excited to announce this new scholarship that develops highly trained engineering and technology professionals. Each year, eight academically talented (>2.75 HS GPA) students who qualify for Pell grant assistance are recruited. iCREST scholars are the center of a community of learners where they support and are supported by activities, peer learners, student mentors and engineering faculty. In addition, scholars receive up to $7,000.00 in tuition support per year for four years. Engage Your Education!

Application open through April 30th, 2024

Apply Today

Take Charge

Students will become a part of a small, networked group of peers that experience the program together.

Selection Criteria

Interested students should complete the application no later than April 30, 2024.

US citizens, nationals, legal permanent residents or refugee aliens.

Be admitted as a full-time degree track student in an Engineering or Engineering Technology major.

Demonstrate a financial need as defined by FASFA.

Have a cumulative GPA of 2.75. Completion of AP STEM courses & participation in extra- curricular and co-curricular STEM related activities will also be considered.

Submit a letter of recommendation from a high school science, math or technology teacher.

Submit a one-page essay introducing yourself and discussing your personal & career goals and interests.

All final applications will be interviewed by the Selection Committee.

Students will

ATTEND CLASSES

Entering scholars jump start their education. They take summer courses for degree credit and start interning with industry. Each semester, in Seminar, they work one-on-one with a faculty mentor and in peer lead study groups discussing career plans, academic schedules, ambitions, obstacles, campus resources and especially homework.

LIVING LEARNING COMMUNITY OF PEERS

Scholars live on campus their first two years in a Living Learning Community of peers. Peer mentors assist in acclimating to college life, accessing resources and mitigating obstacles, as well as social events.

PAID SUMMER INDUSTRIAL INTERNSHIP

Sponsoring companies provide paid internships (work experience) throughout the scholars’ academic career.

Building Connections Mentorship Program

As an iCREST scholar you will work one-on-one with a faculty mentor. You have an Academic Advisor, to stay on track, and will study regularly with other students in a peer lead group. From the first day of class, you have a network that can answer questions.

Leatherneck Success Team

Practice time management and organization and learn new ways to study and take notes.

Center for Career Preparation and Employer Engagement

Helps you in your career journey. Resume and cover letter building, interview assistance, job search assistance.

STEM Living Learning Community

Immerse yourself in engineering. Live in a residence hall with other engineering, science and math majors and participate in special activities and mentoring.